A project supporting landlords and real estate agents to better understand the needs of women and children seeking refuge from family and domestic violence has been extended for a further 12 months.
The State Government allocated Orana House Women’s Refuge $150,000 from its National Partnership Agreement with the Commonwealth to deliver the next phase of the Housing Families project until 30 November 2023.
Launched in June 2021, the initiative works with real estate agents and landlords to help women across Perth fleeing family and domestic violence to find safe and stable housing.
The Housing Families project was originally funded as an initiative under the Commonwealth Government’s National Partnership Agreement on COVID-19 Domestic and Family Violence Responses. Orana House was initially allocated $144,340 to deliver the project from 1 June 2021 to 31 May 2022.
It aligns with the McGowan Government’s long-term plan for a Western Australia where all people live free from violence – Path to Safety: Western Australia’s Strategy to Reduce Family and Domestic Violence 2020-2030.
As stated by Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Simone McGurk:
“Family and domestic violence takes a profound and long-term toll on women’s health and wellbeing, on families and communities, and on society as a whole.
“Safe housing for women and children escaping family violence is critical to their recovery and it would not be possible without the dedication of community sector organisations such as Orana House.
“The State Government is working hard to support their important role helping victim-survivors change their lives for the better.”
